–R. L. Ruzicka

PENSTEMONS have always reminded me of special places. As diverse as this group of plants is, they all share some common characters. The genus Penstemon contains over 250 species from North America and Mexico. In each flower only four true stamens (pollen bearing structures) are present, in spite of its Greek name pente, five and stemon, stamen. American books call them ‘Beard Tongues’, referring to a hairy surface on the staminode (the reduced fifth stamen) within each flower, and on the lower lip of the corolla. Horticulturists are accustomed to ‘oral’ references in describing flowers...teeth, throat, tongue, etc. Without digressing any further, let me say that I’ve never heard anybody ask if we have any Beard Tongues for sale. It’s just Penstemon. These garden perennials gained notoriety as bedding plants in English-style borders, and in the smaller cottage garden settings. We enjoy almost 6 months of bloom here in the Bay Area, from April (if already established) through September. Care is easy if you follow the basics for most non-woody perennials: cut back and divide in fall, feed in spring, and groom in summer. Many species are alpine in origin, requiring a rocky soil and excellent drainage. An example: Penstemon newberryi can be seen sprouting from granite crevices at high elevations in our Sierra Nevada. This and the other alpine species won’t appreciate being planted in our Bay Area clay, so leave them to container culture. On the other hand, a huge group of garden hybrids exists under the ‘technically inaccurate’ heading of Penstemon gloxinioides. There are dozens of colors, sizes and shapes to choose from here, though most bear large flowers on 2 to 3 foot tall racemes. These plants stand out in my mind primarily for the late summer spectacle they provide, but also as dependable border subjects where conditions are not extremely hot and dry. Come take a look at what’s available in our Sun Perennial section. For the patient, more budget-minded, our 4" pots are only $4.95. And let’s hear your name
suggestions for these colorful plants.

–Paul